An appeal by Douglas Gregg (Crosshands) Limited against a decision by Pembrokeshire County Council to refuse planning permission for a retail food store at Spring Gardens, Narberth, has been withdrawn.

This means the council's original decision stands and is not now being challenged.

As a result, the public inquiry to be chaired by a Planning Inspector at the Bloomfield House Community Centre in Redstone Road, Narberth, on June 27, has been cancelled.

Councillor's view

County Clr. Wynne Evans, who represents Narberth on Pembrokeshire County Council, said: "The withdrawal of the application for a large retail store on the brewery site does not mean in anyway the end of the matter, but only a new beginning.

"The Co-op withdrew only to concentrate on expanding an existing site of one of their other stores. A number of on-site meetings took place late last week and two other retailers sent agents to view the site, hence the reason for security gates now being installed on-site for the privacy of visitors.

"I can confirm a new application will be submitted end of autumn. I do have concerns now for the old school site as with the other objection being withdrawn, a possible express-style store will now try to come into the town via the school site. However, with a new application pending on the Brains site, then this may deter them, and as far as who those interested parties are, all I am permitted to say is that there could well be a big suprise in store."